Honda HA4118H38A Owner's Manual page 12

LAWN TRACTOR SAFETY
IMPORTANT MESSAGE TO PARENTS
YOUR CHILD'S SAFETY IS VERY IMPORTANT to Honda. Read this
message if you decide to permit your youngster to operate this lawn
tractor. Lawn tractors are tools, not toys. As with any equipment, bad
judgments can result in serious injuries. You can help prevent acci-
dents by making good decisions about
if, when, and how your young-
ster operates this equipment.
The first question you'll need to ask is whether your youngster is capa-
ble of operating this lawn tractor safely. Remember, young people vary
widely, and AGE IS NOT THE ONLY FACTOR.
Physically, a youngster must be LARGE ENOUGH AND STRONG
ENOUGH to easily start the lawn tractor and control its direction. The
youngster also needs enough size, strength, and coordination to com-
fortably reach and operate the controls.
Another, tougher question you need to ask is if your youngster has
enough MATURITY AND RESPONSIBILITY to safely operate this
lawn tractor. Does the young person think through problems and come
to logical solutions? Be honest! Anyone who takes unnecessary risks
and doesn't obey rules should not operate this lawn tractor.
If you decide that your son or daughter can handle the lawn tractor
safely, CAREFULLY READ THE OWNER'S MANUAL with your young-
ster. Make sure you both understand all instructions and safety infor-
mation. Also, be sure your youngster wears sturdy shoes and other
protective clothing when operating or handling the lawn tractor.
SUPERVISION is important. Walk behind your youngster during the
first few minutes of mowing. Even after the youngster is confident, do
not let them use the lawn tractor without supervision. An adult should
also be present during refueling and maintenance. Be sure the lawn
tractor is properly maintained and kept in safe operating condition.
By always placing safety first, your youngster will acquire useful skills
and a sense of accomplishment. And you'll both get the best results
from your lawn tractor.
IO